The Federal Government of Nigeria has congratulated Donald Trump on his inauguration as the 47th President of the United States. In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, Nigeria emphasized the longstanding relationship between the two countries, highlighting shared goals in promoting good governance, sustainable development, and combating terrorism. Nigeria expressed its commitment to strengthening ties with the US under Trump’s leadership, aiming to benefit both nations and continue collaborating on global issues.
Trump was sworn in on Monday during an inauguration ceremony held at the Capitol Rotunda due to bad weather. Meanwhile, concerns about mass deportations of Nigerians under the Trump administration were addressed. Experts, including Obed Monago, Chairman Emeritus of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization Americas, reassured Nigerians that such large-scale deportations were unlikely due to constitutional and logistical challenges. Monago pointed out that deportations would require Congressional approval and significant resources that have not been allocated. While stricter immigration policies are anticipated, mass deportations are seen as an unrealistic outcome.
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Nigerian technocrat Chief Azuka Aghenu also raised concerns about how Trump’s policies could affect Nigerians, especially undocumented immigrants and those on visitor or business visas. He advised Nigerians to avoid illegal employment and activities that might attract immigration authorities’ attention, including giving birth in the US to secure citizenship. Aghenu also warned that rising medication costs could impact Nigerians on Medicare and Medicaid.
Retired ambassador Rasheed Akinkuolie encouraged Nigerians abroad to plan for the future, particularly retirement, and to consider investing back in Nigeria. He emphasized the need for prudence in financial matters and adherence to cultural values in relationships.
Professor Femi Otubanjo of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs explained that Trump’s stance on immigration is driven by fears among some white Americans about the growing influence of non-white immigrants. He described Trump’s policies as reflecting broader anxieties about political and cultural dominance.
Meanwhile, Democratic-led states and civil rights groups have filed lawsuits against Trump’s executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship for children born in the US to undocumented or temporary visa holders. The lawsuits argue that the order violates the 14th Amendment’s Citizenship Clause, referencing the US Supreme Court’s 1898 ruling in United States v. Wong Kim Ark, which guaranteed citizenship to children born in the US to non-citizen parents. The lawsuits have been filed in multiple states, with cases expected to be reviewed by the 1st US Circuit Court of Appeals.
The White House has not yet commented on the lawsuits.
